READING
Section 2
In this section you will look in more detail
at the following areas:
- Predicting content of a text before reading
(Part A)
- Completion task practice (Part B)
- Identifying main ideas in a text (Part
C)
Part A: Predicting the content of a text
or paragraph.
1. What do you already know?
You are going to read a text about preparing
for, and running a marathon. Before you read the text, how
much do you already know about running marathons? Do you
think the statements below are true or false?
2. Start with the title.
The title of the text can give you an indication
of what the text is about. Look at the title of the text
you are going to read.
"Marathon training programme: final
race preparations and marathon strategy"
What information do you think the text might
include? Choose from this list below. There is no feedback
on this exercise. You will have to read the text to check
your answers.
3. Read the text.
Look at this shortened version of the text.
Were your predictions correct? Read and then answer the
questions at the end of the text.
Marathon training programme: final race
preparations and marathon strategy
Many runners fail to realize that one of the most
important aspects of marathon training is the taper
phase. Reducing weekly and long-run mileage during these
final two weeks is vitally important so that you will
be fully recovered from previous workouts while at the
same time be completely rested for the big event. Assuming
that the marathon is scheduled on a Sunday, we will
refer to the taper phase as the time that spans the
two weeks prior to the marathon right up to Saturday
night before the race.
Cut back on the distance and intensity of your training
runs during the two-week period prior to the marathon,
eliminating long and hard efforts. You will need to
make a decision whether you wish to take either (or
both) Friday or Saturday as a complete leg rest day
on marathon weekend. Remember, there are no workouts
the week prior to the marathon that will enhance your
preparedness for the race.
Running the correct pace for your ability level is crucial
in the marathon, especially for the first-time marathoner.
It's so easy to start the race by running at a pace
which is much faster than you are prepared for. Your
pace during the first mile often feels effortless due
to the adrenaline rush and excitement of the event.
If you run the first mile or two too fast, you'll pay
dearly for the mistake in the later miles. A much better
plan is to start out slower than what you hope to average
and then run the middle miles at your chosen pace.
Do not pass up any fluid stations on the marathon
racecourse. While it's acceptable to drink just water
in the early miles, runners must consume sports beverages
no later than 90 minutes into the race (and earlier
if possible). Find out what works best for you in
long practice runs. At a fluid station, water is usually
offered at the first tables with sports beverages
served near the end of the station. If necessary,
walk through the aid stations to be sure that you
are able to consume the entire contents of the cup.
If you choose to stop and drink, be sure to stay out
of path of approaching runners.
Often during the marathon, you will encounter other
runners who will be running your pace and may wish
to engage you in conversation. It's a personal decision
as to if you wish to stick with them and chat along
the way. The positive aspect of socializing is that
many great friendships have been started this way,
and that talking to others is a great way to take
your mind off the physical discomfort you may face
later in the marathon.
Adapted from "Marathon Training Program:
Final Race Countdown and Marathon Strategy",
by Art Liberman.
Link to: www.marathontraining.com
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Now check your answers to exercise 2. Which
information is included in the text?
